Rita Odafe
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, has suspended two family chiefs, known as Mogaji, for engaging in land grabbing activities. Their traditional beads have also been removed as part of the sanctions.
The suspended chiefs are Mogaji Kukula, Kamorudeen Kolawole from the Kukula family in Ibadan North East, and Mogaji Samsudeen Bello from the Ekerin Ajengbe family in Ibadan South West, both located in Oyo State.
This suspension was announced during a meeting of the Olubadan Land Matters Committee held at the Old Olubadan Palace on Thursday and takes immediate effect. The information was subsequently released by the Chief Press Secretary of Olubadanland, Solomon Olugbemiga Ayoade.
On behalf of the Olubadan, the Otun Olubadan, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, stated that the suspension would last indefinitely until the chiefs address their misconduct. He emphasized, “Your suspension is indefinite until you correct your actions.”
Additionally, the Olubadan warned the chiefs against acts that could tarnish the reputation of Ibadanland, including land grabbing, trespassing, and oppressing community members.
The suspended Mogajis were instructed to refrain from presenting themselves as traditional title holders until their situations are reviewed. Law enforcement has also been directed to detain any of these chiefs if they continue to act as legitimate leaders against the imposed bans.
The Olubadan expressed frustration over some Mogajis and Baales who failed to attend the committee meeting, indicating that such absences could lead to the loss of their titles due to insubordination.
Attendees of the meeting included Oba Abiodun Kola Daisi, the Ashipa Olubadan, Oba Dauda Abiodun Azees, the Ashipa Balogun, Oba Salaudeen Hamidu Ajibade, the Ekerin Olubadan, alongside other notable figures related to traditional matters in Ibadanland.
